Most people wouldn’t argue that HBO makes some of the best shows and films on television right now (they’re pirated enough), so color us curious about the recently announced film which will be a collaboration between actress Julia Roberts and television creator Ryan Murphy (Glee, American Horror Story).

The film will be a Murphy adaptation of Larry Kramer’s play The Normal Heart, and will star Julia Roberts and Mark Ruffalo, who were already attached to the project when it was planned for a theatrical release, reports MSN. Matt Bomer (White Collar, Magic Mike) will also co-star.

The Tony Award-winning play chronicles the early days of the AIDS crisis in New York City. Roberts plays Dr. Emma Brookner, a paraplegic physician who treats early victims of the disease. Opposite Roberts, Ruffalo plays Ned Weeks, who is looking for answers regarding the epidemic. Matt Bomer plays Felix Turner, a reporter who becomes Ned’s lover.

“We are so proud to be involved with this monumental project,” said Michael Lombardo, president of HBO programming. “Ryan has assembled an extraordinary cast to bring Larry Kramer’s landmark theatrical achievement to the screen for the first time, and we couldn’t be more thrilled to bring this important film to HBO.”

The film will be executive produced by Murphy, Jason Blum (Paranormal Activity), Dede Gardner (The Tree of Life) and Dante Di Loreto (Glee). The film will go into production later this year for release in 2014.